” A Modest Proposal ” — Swift — Discussion Questions. 95 points
1) What is the time period of this essay? What was going on in England socially and politically?
2)What does the word ‘modest’ mean? What is ironic about the title, “A Modest Proposal”?
3)What is the problem Swift addresses in his proposal?
4)Identify three examples of understatement in the essay: (use quotes with page #s)
a.
b.
c.
5) To add to the realism of his proposal, Swift provides specific details regarding how his proposal executed. List three specific examples that suggest how his proposal would be carried out and useful.
6) Is Swift’s tone in the essay serious or humorous? Why do you think so?
7) Why do you think Swift wrote this essay? Is he successful in his mission?
8) Where in the essay does Swift provide real solutions to the problem?
9) Why does he make these real solutions seem ridiculous?
10) How do you think people reacted to Swift’s essay?